Apprentice Store social enterprise buys web design firm

Inverness social enterprise The Apprentice Store has acquired city-based web development business Lanetech for an undisclosed sum.

The organisation said the acquisition would help it diversify the IT services it provides to businesses throughout the Highlands and islands, and take on more apprentices.

Lanetech has been working with clients across the UK for more than 10 years, under the leadership of David Powell.

With more than 60 clients, including well-known brands such as Craggan Outdoors and Keltic Seafare, the firm provides website design and development, internet services and email newsletter set-up and design.

The deal, which will have a “carefully managed transition period of 18 months” has already led to the appointment of the first of two new apprentices.

Former Inverness High School student Aaron Williams, 17, was introduced to The Apprentice Store through the Barnardo’s Works programme.

He was offered the apprenticeship in web development after spending four days a week with managing director David